I agree with Uncle Chip that these discussions are great fun, and I always enjoy reading the comments from both of you.
It is difficult for me to understand the mystique of Catholicism and how some folks are drawn to it. The traditions, the superstitions and the lack of any Biblical basis of fact causes me to wonder.....what is their ulterior motive? These folks are not stupid! Surely they can see the deception of their theology.
I generally don’t get involved with them much any more because it is a futile effort....it’s fun...but futile. There is some reason they believe the way they do....and it is impossible for me to understand how anyone could believe that tripe. Any argument they wish to offer in defense of their beliefs can usually be shredded to bits with just a few scriptures and it’s almost boring to deal with them on this level.
Common ground is very elusive with these folks as scripture is twisted to justify their doctrine or simply ignored altogether in favor of tradition. Peter ever being in Rome is the silliest, inane idea ever emanating from their storehouse of false doctrine. But....when you build your organization on a foundation of Simon “Pater” Magus it is understandable why they twist it. Everyone knows he was there....and what he did while he was there.